Junior Erin Kite, a Communication Arts and Sociology major from Wauwatosa, WI, has set her sights on a communications job in a big city. Her internship's giving her valuable experience--and helping her do good, too.
Why did you choose your majors?
I chose Sociology because I think it’s really interesting and I’m passionate about social issues. I chose Comm Arts because I felt it would help me gain skills that will be beneficial in my future career.
Tell us about your internship with Maydm!
I’m a communications intern at Maydm, a local nonprofit that teaches girls and youth of color about tech and the STEM fields. I create social media posts and do different types of outreach activities. I recently wrote a LinkedIn post that highlighted the work some of our students did during Maydm's virtual spring break program. The students coded an entire website about climate change in just five virtual class sessions, and I wanted to promote their great work to show the opportunities Maydm offers students. It has been a great experience so far, and I feel like it’s really helping me to gain skills that will be useful for a career in marketing or public relations someday.
Looking back on your experience in the College of Letters & Science so far, what stands out?
What really stands out is all of the great people I have met. I’ve been able to meet people from all over the world, I’ve met passionate professors and TAs, and of course I’ve also met great friends. Studying here has challenged me and pushed me to become a better student. I’ve had the opportunity to learn from amazing professors and learn with really hard-working peers.
What do you have to balance during the school year? How do you manage your time?
During the school year I have to balance an internship, a job at the Badger Market and being a member of the service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega. To manage my time, I make sure to prioritize everything I have to do. Classes and schoolwork always come before everything else. I also wake up really early so that I can make the most out of my day.
Why do you like being a Badger?
Because everyone here is so dedicated and hardworking! Everyone that’s a Badger loves being a Badger and it creates a really positive environment.
What do you like to do for fun on or near campus?
I like to try different restaurants and study at coffee shops on State Street. When it’s nice out I love to sit on Bascom Hill or go to the Sunset Deck, it’s a lesser-known part of the Terrace so it’s usually pretty quiet up there, which can be nice.
What advice would you give to incoming freshmen?
Get as involved as possible! There are so many different clubs and job opportunities, and they can help you meet a lot of people. I would also tell them not to worry too much about their major. It’s never too late to change your major, and it’s important to find what you’re passionate about!
By the time you graduate, you want to ________.
Feel like I’ve taken advantage of everything Madison has to offer, and I want to have accepted a job offer in a big city, such as Chicago or Boulder, CO. The pandemic has not changed that goal!